Description
What Is Cetearyl Alcohol?
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from cetyl and stearyl alcohols. Commonly used in personal care and cosmetic formulations, it functions as an emulsion stabilizer, opacifying agent, foam-boosting surfactant, and thickening agent (aqueous and nonaqueous).
Other names: Cetostearyl Alcohol, Cetyl-stearyl Alcohol
Chemical Properties of Cetearyl Alcohol
⦿ CAS#: 67762-27-0
⦿ Cetearyl Alcohol Chemical Formula: CH3(CH2)nOH
⦿ Appearance: White, flaky solid
⦿ Odor: Faint, soapy
Technical Profile of Cetearyl Alcohol
| Boiling Point | 249°C |
| Melting Point | 50°C |
| pH | 6.0 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water Partially soluble in alcohol |
| Viscosity | 53 cP |
Industries That Use Cetearyl Alcohol
The most common industries that use Cetearyl Alcohol are:
⦿ Personal Care & Cosmetics
⦿ Hair Care
⦿ Animal Care
Applications of Cetearyl Alcohol
Cetearyl Alcohol is used for a variety of applications. Commonly formulated into lotions and moisturizers, shampoos, sunscreen, body washes, and makeup products, Cetearyl Alcohol is used as an:
Emollient
Unlike a lot of alcohols that dry out your skin, Cetearyl Alcohol traps water, making for smoother cream or lotion.
Emulsifier
Cetearyl alcohol binds liquids with oils to prevent formulations from separating.
Bulking/Thickening Agent
Cetearyl Alcohol provides thickening properties to topical skincare products, shampoos, and conditioners.
Benefits of Using Cetearyl Alcohol
Non-Drying: Unlike most alcohols, fatty alcohols like Cetearyl Alcohol are non-irritating and heal dry skin.
Binding: Cetearyl Alcohol helps bind the water-based components of your formulation with its oil-based ingredients, creating a smoother product that doesn’t separate.
Safe: Cetearyl Alcohol is considered a non-toxic ingredient and can be used in cosmetic products labeled “alcohol-free.”
Additional information
| CAS# | 67762-27-0 |
|---|---|
| Formula | CH3(CH2)nOH |
